Are You an Introvert or Extrovert? Science Says One Sleeps Better Than the Other

Within the past few of years, there has been a lot of talk about personality type, specifically the difference between introverts and extroverts. Introverts (like yours truly) tend to be more quiet and shy. They crave alone time in order to "recharge" from daily life. Extroverts, on the other hand, seem to be more naturally outgoing. They're most comfortable when they're surrounded by others.

Whichever camp you fall into, it can determine a lot of things about you, including your wellness habits, preferred workout routines, and even what color lipstick you wear. Now, according to a new study, it might even determine your quality of sleep. That's right. As The Debrief reports, a study conducted by researchers from Best Mattress Brand says that one personality type gets better rest, on average, than the other.

Keep reading to see whether introverts or extroverts tend to sleep better.

According to the study, introverts are less likely to experience quality sleep than extroverts (sorry, fellow introverts). The researchers determined this in a unique way. One thousand Americans were given the famous Myers-Briggs test, which determines specific aspects of your personality (like introversion vs. extroversion) based on responses to a questionnaire. After the Myers-Briggs test was completed, the researchers asked the participants about their individual sleep experiences. Their comments were studied in comparison with their Myers-Briggs personality type.

On average, introverts reported less energy and alertness during the day and less consistency in sleeping through the night. Interestingly enough, they also experienced more nightmares and remembered them more clearly than their extroverted counterparts. In fact, the most common nightmare—where your teeth fall out randomly and without warning—was experienced by introverts 14.2% more often than extroverts. (This nightmare is thought to be the result of experiencing heightened feelings of anxiety).

It's unclear exactly how, or why, introverts experience lower sleep quality on average. However, it is known that poor sleep can negatively affect mental health, so ensuring you get the best night's rest possible, no matter your personality type, is critical.